Spiritual companions go side by side on interconnected paths. Friendships are frequently formed on the basis of shared experiences and interests. That is, we have comparable values, are in similar phases of development, and have roughly the same level of knowledge and expertise in our common interests.
Before You Continue...
Do you know what is your soul number? Take this quick quiz to find out! Get a personalized numerology report, and discover how you can unlock your fullest spiritual potential. Start the quiz now!
What is true friendship according to the Bible?
True friends are always there for you. Love is the language of the soul; it excites, encourages, and enriches friendships. Loving friendships, on the other hand, are a rare find. Many people covet these rare commodities, yet friendships without love are like to ships without sails or tunnels without light at the end.
Even in difficult and uncertain times, love is the glue that ties solid friendships together, yet not all friends are loving. Some pals are only interested in hanging out with you when things are going great for you. They will say the right things at the right times and exhibit the characteristics of a caring friend, but as soon as you are unable to meet their demands and expectations, their love fades away.
This Bible scripture says that love is a quality of a good friend, and that a good friend will love you no matter what. Good friends don't look for ways to excuse themselves from expressing their love for you; instead, they look for ways to demonstrate their love for you even more.
Take a close look at your friends and consider what they're doing. If you suspect one of your friends is toxic, you can put their love and commitment to the test by doing the following over time:
Love will withstand the test of time and many challenges, therefore they will not remain offended for long if they are truly loving and faithful friends. Instead, they'll look for ways to show their love and maintain their friendship.
Note that this is a dangerous method that should only be used on friends who have shown harmful behavior.
And it came to pass after he had finished speaking to Saul, that Jonathan's soul was knit with David's soul, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. And Saul took him that day, refusing to let him return to his father's house. After that, Jonathan and David made a covenant because he adored him as if he were his own soul.
Love is patient and kind; it is not envious or boastful; it is not arrogant or impolite. It isn't obstinate; it isn't irritated or resentful; it doesn't exult in wrongdoing, but rejoices in the truth. Love bears everything, believes everything, hopes everything, and suffers everything.
Allow genuine love to flourish. Abhor evil and stick fast to what is right. With brotherly affection, love one another. Honor one another by outdoing one another.
What are the characteristics of a godly friendship?
Personally, I've had friendships from various walks of life. I've had friends who, like Christ, have loved me unconditionally, and I've had friends who have abandoned our connection. Friendship difficulties can be heartbreaking. I advise you to be the kind of buddy you'd like to have. As Christians, we must glorify God through these relationships. Here are five things to think about when it comes to your friendships. I encourage you to explore these areas of your life to see if you are being a godly friend and if your friends possess these attributes.
IS ENCOURAGING
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up,” 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says. That's the kind of friend Jesus expects you to be! When a buddy earns an honor or distinction, you should be ecstatic. You should encourage her to deepen her faith in Jesus Christ. Being upbeat does not imply sugarcoating everything, but rather keeping upbeat even when things appear to be going badly.
IS A TRUTH SPEAKER
Even when it is tough to hear, a godly friend imparts truth into your life. A true friend actually cares about you and wants the best for you. They will inform you of both the positive and negative aspects of your situation. She'll let you know if she thinks you're drifting away from God or if she thinks you've been getting closer to Him. Every day, she will communicate God's Truth into your life.
SAYS THINGS IN LOVE
This one is related to the previous point. If you believe God is calling you to speak a difficult truth into the life of a friend, you must do so in love. Gentleness is a fruit of the Spirit that should be practiced throughout a Christian's life (Galatians 5:22). Speaking a difficult reality in a polite and courteous manner can build rather than harm a friendship.
PRAYS FOR YOU
A genuine and godly friend prays for and with you. We all go through difficult times in life, and a true friend understands the importance of a prayerful community and asks how she can pray for you. My close friends and I get together once a week to share our spiritual journeys, even how we have struggled. It's critical to have that kind of support and responsibility. It's liberating to share your prayers and struggles with your pals.
IS THOUGHTFUL
A good friend puts others' needs ahead of her own (Philippians 2:3). She considers how she can be of service to others and encourage them in their faith. She remembers her friends' birthdays and special days. Her friendships are purposeful, and she understands that their goal is to honor God.
IS SECURE IN HER IDENTITY
Her immense worth in Christ is recognized by a good friend. She knows who she is as a daughter of the Most High. She is also aware of your true identity. That's why, when you achieve, she's not envious; instead, she's the person in the throng applauding the loudest for you.
IS LOYAL
Even when situations are difficult, a godly friend stands by your side. She defends you when necessary and is constantly complimentary of you. She understands that “the tongue speaks out of the abundance of the heart” (Luke 6:45), and she solely uses her words to encourage you and others.
FORGIVES
We have all fallen short of God's grace and will make errors. Being able to forgive a buddy who has hurt you is vital. “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone,” Colossians 3:13 says. Allow yourself to be forgiven as the Lord has forgiven you.” I'm grateful for godly friends who have forgiven me when I've done them wrong. We are called to forgive by God. This is not the same as excusing an abusive friendship. You don't have to forgive them, but you don't have to stay in a bad relationship.
IS A PEACEMAKER
In her connections, a good friend cultivates serenity. She isn't a fan of drama or strife. She is looking for serenity and harmony. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God,” Matthew 5:9 says. She avoids unneeded drama and is at her happiest when others feel involved and valued.
BRINGS OUT YOUR BEST
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another,” says Proverbs 27:17. Friendships are supposed to help you grow in your faith. A wonderful buddy encourages you to be your best self. It is also your obligation as a Christian friend to support and encourage your friends.
It's not easy to be a good buddy. Abiding in Christ is the key to being a good friend. Remember what friendship is all about: honoring God. Be the kind of friend that God desires. If you seek God with all of your heart, He will grant you the ability to be a good friend. You will become the best friend a girl could ask for if you love others as Christ loves you.
Can you have a spiritual connection with a friend?
It could have been love at first sight. Or maybe you just had a one-of-a-kind connection. In any case, it's possible you've discovered your spiritual twin! You become enthralled with the other person's life story and passions…
When two people share a lot of common interests or passions in life, they are said to have a spiritual connection.
You may go off on unexpected tangents, but the other person will easily follow you. You're perfectly understood, or they seem to be checking in and asking whether you're following them all the time…
Spiritual Connection: When two people can have in-depth discussions about important issues without feeling judged by one another.
You reveal each other's secrets, ideas, and dreams. You have the impression that you can entirely trust them or that they understand you in a manner that no one else has…
When two persons are able to connect on an emotional level, they are said to have a spiritual connection.
It might get so powerful that you feel like a magnetic force is pulling you both together. It may appear to come and go at other times…
When two people have an electric energy that brings them closer together, they are said to have a spiritual connection.
It appears that you and your partner have a strong sense of shared destiny. Maybe you just get a feeling they're supposed to be in your life…
When two people believe that their friendship is destined or vital for some reason, they have a spiritual connection.
It may take some time, but you can't deny that there's a great force pulling you both together. Even if your friendship is platonic, you may sense this…
Spiritual Connection: When two people, despite only being friends, are drawn to each other spiritually.
Sign #7: The Other Person Has Shared Spirit Guide or Deceased Loved One Experiences
Although you may not have the same spiritual beliefs, you do share a sense of spirituality. Or perhaps they've had similar situations that don't appear to be purely coincidental…
Spiritual Connection: When two people, although being non-spiritual in their daily lives, may sense or interact with spirits together.
When you're with them, you feel inspired, energized, and creative. They may bring out the best in you or simply serve as a reminder of your true self…
When two people motivate one other to attain their full potential, they are said to have a spiritual connection.
You know they have your back and would never do anything to harm you on purpose. They appear to be an integral part of who you are, not only now but also in the future…
Spiritual Connection: When two people trust one other implicitly despite the fact that there is no logical basis for them to.
It's as if they can see deep into your soul and know who you really are when you're together. They may even appear to be a reflection of yourself…
When two people are able to connect on an emotional level that feels more than just human, it is called spiritual connection.
You have the impression that you can be yourself with them. Or perhaps they feel misunderstood since they don't fit in with the rest of society…
Spiritual Connection: When two people connect on an emotional level because their energy is distinct from that of others.
You can't deny that they have a distinct personality. Maybe they have a distinct energy than everyone else you've ever met, or maybe it only appears that way…
When two people connect spiritually, even if others don't understand why, they are on the same energy wave.
When the other person is around, you may feel prickles of electricity or be more open to being in their presence…
Spiritual Connection: When two people have a strong energy connection that makes others uncomfortable.
When you're apart, you can sometimes feel a deep connection that you can't feel when you're together. It doesn't rule out the possibility of the connection working in person, but there is something unquestionably unique about it…
When two people experience a strong spiritual connection even if they are physically apart from each other.
It's possible that the other person perceives you in ways that no one else has. Perhaps they recognize your huge potential or have a better knowledge of who you are…
Spiritual Connection: When two people can see pieces of themselves in one other that others can't.
Without asking, the other person can glimpse something in your future by looking at you! It's possible that they know what's going to happen next, or you'll just know when the time is right…
Spiritual Connection: When two people can see each other's future without having to ask.
You might have the impression that you constantly know what they're thinking or that you could complete each other's sentences if you wanted to! It's possible that things between you two just come naturally…
This person has a significant resemblance to your twin flame or soul mate! They may be inextricably linked to you and feel so familiar that you feel as if you've known them your entire life…
When two persons have a strong spiritual connection, they are said to be spiritually connected.
Sign #19: You have a thorough understanding of the other person's personality and life goals.
You have a thorough understanding of the other person and their motivations. You can see their life's purpose and what makes them tick… Not only do they feel familiar, but you can see what makes them tick…
Spiritual Connection: When two persons have a deep spiritual understanding of each other.
Sign #20: You have the impression that the other person can see into your soul and hear what you're not saying.
To know that the other person understands you, you don't always have to say things out loud. They can see right into your soul and hear what you're not saying…
Spiritual Connection: When two people connect emotionally and spiritually on a level that goes beyond verbal communication.
How do you help a friend spiritually?
We are dedicated to providing whole-person care to our patients and their families at AdventHealth. This entails going above and above to meet not just their physical, but also their emotional and spiritual requirements. The good news is that you don't need a theology degree or to be a chaplain to achieve this. It can be as simple as delivering a reassuring touch or uttering a quick prayer.
Keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all approach when considering some of the spiritual care options described below. Everyone you meet is at a different stage of their spiritual development. Consider what it's like to be in their shoes when you interact, and pray for wisdom to help them in the ways they require.
Take Your Cues from the Patient
Because patients are visitors at our hospitals, it's critical to let them take the lead throughout each visit. Don't bring up the subject of church or religion. Instead, begin by inquiring about their well-being and what brought them to the hospital. This allows kids to express themselves and communicate what is important to them.
Pay attention to your patient's nonverbal signals as well. Patients will sometimes try to be polite by not speaking out when they require assistance. Others are in an uncomfortable circumstance that makes it difficult for them to express clearly how they want to be cared for. Before you can provide spiritual support, you must first address your patient's physical requirements, which may include changing the bed, turning off the television so they can have some quiet time, or assisting them to the bathroom.
Demonstrate a Christ-like Attitude
Treat your patients with the same love that God has for you! Don't just say you care about someone; actually care about them and recognize the good in them. That means treating them as if they were the most important person in your life, even if you don't agree with everything they say or how they treat you. Keep in mind that love isn't always a sensation. It's sometimes a decision to smile even if you don't feel like it, to establish eye contact, to listen with compassion, and to serve without expecting anything in return.
3. Inquire about the patient's spiritual needs.
Asking patients how you might help them spiritually is one of the simplest methods to provide spiritual care, and then doing your best to fulfill that request is another. For example, if your patient is a Greek Orthodox Christian who wishes to see a priest before surgery, contact the Greek Orthodox Church in your area and see whether the priest would be willing to come. Remember not to make any promises to your patient that you aren't confident you can keep. Rather than promising a Greek Orthodox priest by 3 p.m., simply say, “Let me check into it and see what I can arrange.”
Offer to contact a chaplain or pray with the patient if the priest is unavailable.
Support Patients Within Their Own Faith Tradition
The goal of spiritual care isn't to convert patients to your religion; rather, it's to help them connect with the divine if they desire it. Remember that they are a captive audience, frequently confined to a hospital bed they don't want to be in, while you connect with them. It's always right to show God's love and compassion in these situations, but it's not fair to tell them what they should believe.
I understand that caregivers who want to stay true to their own beliefs may face internal conflict in this area. This is my advice to you: Make every effort to assist patients according to their religious beliefs, but always follow your conscience. When I pray with patients who are not Christians, for example, I make sure the language I use do not contradict my own views.
Also keep in mind that, in the end, people do not convert people. Only God has the power to change people's hearts.
5. Listen to others' fears and concerns without getting caught up in your own.
It's simple to remark, “I know how you feel,” and then launch into a tale about one of your own experiences when someone starts sharing their problems with you. But keep in mind that you are there to help the patient, not the other way around. To provide emotional and spiritual support, I've found that naming the emotions that patients or family members express and then asking a follow-up question is far more effective. “I hear a lot of fear in your comments,” you could say, for example. “Could you please explain me where that came from?” “You appear to be in a bad mood.” “Could you tell me what's going on?”
Don't be offended if they refuse to talk to you. Take that as an indication that the time isn't quite right.
6. Inquire if you are permitted to pray with them.
Caregivers aren't always sure how or when to ask if a patient wants prayer. My general rule of thumb is to always ask if you can pray for your patient if they are in pain. “Would you mind if I say a quick prayer for you, Mrs. Jones?” I'll generally say. The word “short” is significant because it tells the patient that even if they don't understand what you're going to say, they'll probably be able to tolerate it because it will be brief.
Share an Encouraging Thought or Word
Scripture has a wonderful ability to elevate people's spirits and encourage them. Psalm 46:10 is one of my favorite Bible scriptures that I like to share with patients. It reads, “Be quiet, and know that I am God,” declares the Lord. When I read this scripture to frightened patients, I tell them to relax, take a deep breath, and recognize that they are in God's presence, and that God will take care of them.
What parts of the Bible speak to you the most? I recommend memorizing two or three so that you can draw from a pool of spiritual concepts that have inspired you and utilize them to encourage others when the occasion arises.
8. Make Use of Your Senses of Presence and Touch
When I first started out as a chaplain, I had a hard time grasping what it meant to be a chaplain “Presence ministry.” I wanted to say a lot of things to soothe someone who had lost a loved one or who had a loved one who wasn't doing well. I've since realized that people don't always want to hear words. They simply want to know that someone is concerned about them. A person in need can receive this care just by being in your presence. Simply by being present in that moment, you are reflecting God.
What are the characteristics of a true friend?
5. Friends from various backgrounds and perspectives. When you have the opportunity to listen to others who are different from you, you may actually grow as a human being, both professionally and emotionally. When you hang out with people who just agree with you or do the same things as you, you can get stuck in a rut. New perspectives, ideas, experiences, and advice from friends can help you learn more about yourself and grow as a more well-rounded human being. Friends from many walks of life can help you shift from a fixed perspective to a growing mindset.
What is the true deep meaning of friendship?
It's natural to have doubts about your friendships and what they mean to you. If you're having doubts about your friendships, a therapist may be able to help you nurture healthier relationships. A therapist can assist you in improving your entire well-being by addressing issues such as relationship growth, social anxiety, loneliness, and more.
Do your buddies frequently let you down? Do they constantly put you down? Do they desert you when you're in the most desperate need? If that's the case, it's time to rethink what it means to be a loyal friend. Here are some things to look for when deciding who you should entrust your friendship to.
Someone who is truly your friend defends you. When others try to emotionally or physically harm you, they will do everything they can to keep you safe. They don't care who is attempting to harm you; they will protect you at all times and in all places. If they can assist you, they will do it without hesitation or compensation. A true friend is not one who constantly tells you how bad other people think of you. To begin with, they make it plain where they stand on you through their words and behavior. Second, they don't just stand by silently when others are pulling you down, regardless of the social ramifications. When it's convenient, and when it's not, a true friend is a friend. They are always there for you, both when you are present and when you are not.
With you, true friends aren't phony. They reveal their true selves. When it matters most, they are open and honest with you. They will never try to deceive you in order to appear stronger, more successful, or better than they are. True friendship goes beyond appearances; it necessitates some kind of vulnerability. When a buddy confides in you and reveals their challenges and disappointments, it demonstrates their faith and worth in you. Having a buddy who is willing to trust you with their own self is a positive sign that you can do the same with them.
A true friend not only tells you the truth about themselves, but also about you. They can have unpleasant conversations with you and tell you things that you may not want to hear. The important thing is that they do it with love and grace. True friends don't tear you down; instead, they hold you to a standard they believe your character is deserving of.
True friends accept you for who you are. They can motivate you to grow into a better version of yourself, but they can also help you appreciate who you are right now. They are unaffected by what others may say or think about you. Instead, they honor the version of you that they've come to know. A true friend will not only encourage you to make excellent decisions, but they will also trust and appreciate your own personal judgements. When they give you advice you don't like, they don't become passive aggressive; instead, they respect your limits and honor your feelings and thoughts. They don't force you to become the person they want you to be; instead, they appreciate your individuality. They tolerate your personal evolutions and progress since the reasons they value are considerably more important than your personal style, interests, profession, marital/relationship status, and so on.
A phony buddy may try to persuade you to change for them. They might give you the kind of feedback you want rather than the kind of advice you need. A great friend respects your sentiments while also pointing you in the direction of a happier, healthier existence. A true friend does not take your personal development for granted; they do not simply sit by and watch you make poor decisions. They want to see you at your happiest and healthiest. The motivation to make the decision that will lead to the life you desire. They learn how to be your biggest supporter while also holding you accountable to your objectives.
When you're happy and successful, you have fairweather pals. They then move on to the next happy, successful person when things go wrong for you. A true friend, on the other hand, sticks by your side through traumas, disappointments, mental health crises, and physical ailments. They don't forsake you just because avoiding you is easier or more convenient. Because a great friend genuinely cares about you, they want to be there for you in your worst hours. They are more concerned with what you are going through than with how much pleasure you are having. A buddy is there for you, not just for the things you have going on in your life. So, when life throws you a curveball and you're feeling depressed or overwhelmed, you won't have to face it alone because you'll have a loyal buddy by your side.
Everyone has their own idea of what a buddy should be. You may want a buddy who shares your hobbies or aspirations, in addition to the attributes shared by all great friends. Alternatively, you could want to spend time with people who are unlike you in ways that push you to grow as a person. If your current pals have disappointed you, redefining true friendship can lead to a more fulfilling connection.
When it comes to friendship, we all have various requirements and desires, similar to our personal preferences. You may also realize that some differences can help you in some parts of your life, while another friend can help you in another area. Increasing the number of pals in your support system can help ensure that your needs are handled effectively. No friend can be everything to you, and no friend can be everything to you. Even true friends disappoint us from time to time. What matters the most is how they react to your emotions and the patterns they form. Have the disappointments you've had in your friendship turned into a habit? Even if they don't agree with you, a good friend cares about you and can show concern and respect for your opinions and emotions. If you've been disappointed in a friendship on a regular basis, it's time to reconsider your definition of a true friend.
Speaking with a competent therapist can help you figure out where you're going wrong when it comes to choosing buddies. The therapist can provide you with a solid psychological foundation for recognizing and fostering connections that will enrich your life and provide you happiness and calm in the present and future. It simply takes a few seconds to ask for help. When you do, you'll be able to begin your road toward fulfilling friendships with genuine people.
What is a passive friendship?
Active good friend: possessing the attributes of a good friend as well as a deep connection with someone through regular communication, intimate involvement in the specifics of his or her life, and actively reacting to his or her needs for support – for better or bad.
Passive good friend: still has all the character features and connection you once had with someone, but talks and sees them less frequently, however everything feels perfect when you do.